Can an employer fire you for contacting an former co-worker?
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Can an employer fire you for contacting an former co-worker?
An ex-employee of the business where I work has resigned from the company. This person owes me money and has borrowed several things from me which have not been returned. My employer says that I am not allowed to contact this person regarding this and will terminate my employment if I do. Again, this person no longer get works for this employer.
Asked on December 6, 2016 under Employment Labor Law, Tennessee
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
Actually, a worker can be fired for the reason that you state or for any reason or for no reason at all. This is known as "at will" employment. Your only protection here is if you have an employment contract or union agreement that provides otherwise. Also, your treatment must not constitute some for of legally actionable discrimination or retaliation (which it does not appear to). Bottom line, you can either comply with your company's request, ignore it but face termination, or quit.
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